Singer/songwriter Amiena (pronounced A-Mee-Na) has been recording and performing music for years. But when the song “Never Know” was played on the FOX TV show “Bones”, everyone wanted to hear more from the angel-voiced lovely, and so did we. You’ve probably heard this super-talented lady’s music, but didn’t know who she was. With her smooth, velvet-esque voice and amazing lyrics, she’s about to change all of that.
We got a chance to talk to the Amiena during her busy schedule, and find out a bit more about her.
Hello Amiena! How does it feel being in Chulo Magazine? It is a bit of a surprise. A happy one though. I am honoured that Chulo Magazine would select me. Thanks!
You’re welcome! Okay, we’re not going to lie, we all really love your name! Where does it come from? It is a Middle Eastern name – although it should be spelled Amina, my father liked to add letters. So, Amiena was born. Although growing up people would call me “Amie”.
Makes your fans remember you better too, no? Definitely.
Which instruments do you play? Piano and Guitar.
What were the first songs you learned? All religious – and, I cannot really remember. I think it was a song called “Jesus I Heard You Had a Big House” by Tupelo Children’s Mansion.
Is your family musical? My father’s side was. My father sang and one of my older brothers, Joe, played the drums.
Is your family pretty supportive of your music career? Some are. I tried putting one of my bumper stickers on my younger brother’s car for fun, he took it off. I think my mum is finally understanding what I do – I used to joke with her and tell her I was a pole dancer. She tripped out one day when she saw articles about me online and heard a song I sang called “Never Know” played on the Fox TV show, “Bones”.
What are some of your fondest musical memories? Most of my younger musical memories are of singing in church. It was cool then. Now, not so much.
What’s the first album you’ve ever bought? I think it was Amy Grant.
Your music has a pretty solid R&B sound. “Red Light” and “Review My Kisses” have an R&B feel, while “Falling Down” went in a completely different direction. Why the reason to mix it up so much? “Red Light” is an original that I co-wrote with Chris Mann (Season 2 finalist on the TV show The Voice), it is also our first duet. “Review My Kisses” is probably my favourite song of all time. R&B/Soul is the style I am drawn towards. On “Falling Down” – I was approached by Michael Mansion to sing on his track. It was totally out of my box and I thought, why not. I had fun doing it and, although it is a totally different direction – I am all about taking chances.
What are your songs usually about? The songs I write are about life around me. Relationships, personal or observed. “Little Miss Perfect,” I wrote when I was coming to terms with the fact that I am OK just the way I am. I don’t have to be perfect. “Fourth Floor” was a song about a relationship I was in. On my newest EP, “Gone” is another song written based on experience. All of the songs are really a peek into my personal diary and my thoughts. It’s a bit like cheap therapy. The cover songs that I choose to sing are picked by me because there is an element of the song I can connect with.
Who are your musical influences? We’re thinking that they’re probably as diverse as your music. Absolutely. They varied from childhood onward. However, the constants to this day: Amy Grant, Steven Curtis Chapman, Carol King, Kenny Edmonds, Etta James, Chicago (yeah, I just said Chicago), John Legend, Cheb Khalid, Irene Cara, Sting, and more.
You’ve been doing a lot of promotional globe-trotting! Where have you been so far? We have been running crazy! In the last month we have been to Morocco, the United Kingdom, Germany and we are headed to Spain next week.
How are people reacting to you? Are you getting a lot of new fans? The reaction is a bit overwhelming. It is wonderful knowing that what you are passionate about is bringing others enjoyment. The new “fans” (still strange saying that so I say new “friends”) are great. Recently in Morocco, we had a few encounters with guys who recognized me and asked for pictures. One guy approached me while I was leaving a coffee shop and asked “Are you the Red Light American singer” – it was sweet.
What are some of your music career goals, over the next 1 to 3 years? I am trying to focus on organizing. I am at a place where it is important to gather people around me who believe in me and my music, and can help propel me to the next level.
How would you define the word “success”? For me, success is an ongoing effort. Finding a way to live your passion – never settling.
Where else are you headed during your tour? Spain then back to the studio.
How do you rate your live performance ability? Always entertaining. Some gigs I am more relaxed and others I am a bit shy (until I sing). I still have a problem talking in between songs, but I am working on that.
Facebook or Twitter? Facebook.com/amienamusic, and twitter.com/amienaa.
How can potential fans hear more of your music? iTunes, CD Baby, Soundcloud, Reverbnation, and Google. Or just download my free Android app.
What’s next for you? A short holiday project. A new CD including a video. More gigs.
What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into? I am always in trouble! I have no filter.
What are the five things you can’t live without? Music, tweezers, news (I am a news junkie), ice tea, and my iPhone.
What’s your motto or the advice you live by? Motto: Live. Dream. Believe. Advice: It is better to take a chance than to live with the “what if” factor.
What is your favourite song to belt out at the bar/in the car/for karaoke? “Out Here On My Own” by Irene Cara.
Pizza-Hut or Dominos? Oh! Pizza-Hut.
Ten years from now you will be… Singing, writing and spending more time on the charities I support. Definitely making a difference not just with music but also in people’s day-to-day lives.
Photos By: Todd Tyler Photography
